The New York Yankees struggled in 2018 with their pitching rotation; lacking consistency and efficiency when going into their starting depth. Moving forward, they will look to bolster the unit exponentially through free agency. The Yanks have already added James Paxton from the Seattle Mariners for top prospect Justus Sheffield. They are now pursuing star pitcher Patrick Corbin aggressively, with reports stating they are closing in on a six-year deal worth around $115 million.

If the Yankees can secure the lefty they will be in a good position next season with the retention of Luis Severino, Masahiro Tanaka, and CC Sabathia. Corbin visited Yankee Stadium on Thursday; his introduction was displayed and he was treated like royalty. As most free agents say, “it’s a dream to wear the Yankee Pinstripes.”

Patrick Corbin: LHP

2018 Stats (ARZ):

11-7, 3.15 ERA, 33 Starts, 246 SO, 200.0 IP, 1.050 WHIP, 4.8 WAR

Corbin had a strong year in 2018, posting a career-best in both ERA and Strikeouts. Now facing free agency for the first time, the two-time all-star is looking to take his talents to a team that could make a deep postseason run.

Since April, Corbin has been connected to the Yankees when he commented about his desire to play in the Bronx. A New York native, he grew up in a household of Yankee fans. The bombers could undoubtedly use a man of Corbin’s caliber to upgrade their starting rotation. Having already acquired Mariners ace James Paxton, adding Corbin would give the Yankees another arm to compliment ace Luis Severino. Paxton finished the year with an 11.7 K/9, with Corbin not far behind at 11.1, a career high for him.

A question would be if Corbin can at least pitch competently in Yankee Stadium. In his six-year career, the only home he has ever known was Chase Field, which like the Stadium, is a very hitter-friendly ballpark, especially when the roof is open.